DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF DISCUSSION-ORIENTED FLIPPED LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

This research discusses the process of designing and developing a flipped learning environment, which is one of the blended learning approaches, through integrating the discussion environment in order to eliminate some of its limitations. In this context, in order to improve the interaction of students in various dimensions, the discussion environment was integrated into the traditional flipped learning environment. The environment was designed to be discussion-oriented so that students can access the learning content and discussion media simultaneously on the same screen. The method of research was determined as developmental research. In this regard, environmental design and development steps were followed in accordance with the developmental research steps. PHP, JavaScript and MySQL databases were used in environment developing processes. The system was built on WordPress content management system, the course videos were recorded in a professional studio environment, and editing and production stages were carried out by the researcher. The newly-designed and developed prototype environment was tested by both nine field experts and 42 undergraduate students studying at Uşak University in Turkey. To evaluate the pilot environment developed, "Expert Environment Assessment Form" was used to get expert opinion and "Pilot Application Evaluation Form and Opinion Questionnaire” was used to get student opinion. The expert opinion and evaluation form was comprised of three parts. General features of the discussion-oriented flipped learning environment were discussed in the first part, and the features of flipped learning environment were discussed in the second part. The last part included the items related to the visual design features of the new environment. In line with the opinions received, final evaluations were made, and the environment was put into its final form. In line with feedback from students and experts, it can be stated that turning the flipped learning environment into a discussion-oriented structure positively affects the satisfaction levels of students about the environment.